Virtually all antioxidants are beneficial to the skin and other areas of the body most prone to the effects of aging. Vitamins C, A, and E help provide help to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles, while beta carotene has been shown to decrease the risk of conditions which affect vision. To choose the best anti-aging antioxidants, it is best to choose options tailored with other ingredients designed for a particular function when used in supplement form. The best source of antioxidants is from natural food sources, such as spinach, blueberries, carrots, oranges, and eggplant.
There are a variety of ways the body responds to aging. The skin loses elasticity and begins to sag and form wrinkles. Hair may become brittle or thinner, and the eyes may develop conditions like glaucoma. Additionally, every system of the body begins to feel the effects of years of wear and tear. This is why older adults are at a much higher risk for a variety of health problems and conditions.
Much of this aging process is caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that damage cells in every area of the body. Anti-aging antioxidants work by destroying free radicals so that less damage is done is to the skin, eyes, and organs. All antioxidants are beneficial in preventing the signs of aging, although some may be more beneficial to certain areas of the body than others.
Vitamins, A, C, and E have all shown to be very effective anti-aging antioxidants, primarily in relation to the skin. Some studies have shown that high enough levels of these substances may reduce cell damage and allow the skin to produce more collagen so that it maintains a firm and youthful appearance. Vitamin C has the added benefit of boosting immune function to ward off disease, and Vitamin D has been shown to reduce cancer risk.
Beta carotene, a carotenoid, has long been known to prevent certain eye diseases and to help maintain vision clarity. This substance can be found in orange vegetables like carrots, although it is also available in supplement form. A combination of both sources is often most beneficial, especially for those who do not eat a balanced diet.
There are anti-aging antioxidants on the market which are tailored to prevent certain aspects of the aging process. They are found in supplement form and most options are designed to reduce wrinkles and improve skin quality over time. Others may be designed to boost immune function or slow vision loss. Sometimes they are combined with additional ingredients to heighten the effects.
